Living in Phoenix allows us to have a very long swimming season. Taking the time to prepare your pool at the beginning of the swimming season will help ensure that your pool is trouble free all summer long. These tips should help walk you through the process and have you swimming in no time!
The first thing you must do is remove the pool cover. To do this you should first carefully remove any debris with a broom or rake. Then drain any water that has gathered on top of the cover, you may need a pump for this. It is important to keep this water out of the pool so that it does not drastically alter the chemical balance. Once the cover has been cleaned off, remove it carefully. Give it a quick cleaning and then you can fold it and put it in storage until you need it in the Fall.
Once the cover has been removed, add water if needed to bring it back up to a normal operating level. While it is filling take some time to inspect the pool, checking for cracks or damage around steps, slides and the diving board. Replace or repair if necessary. If any debris is floating in the pool, use a net to remove it. This is also a good time to wipe down the tiles in your pool. Always use a soft sponge and baking soda, you do not want to use any household chemicals.
Now it is time to turn your filter back on. You should have cleaned your filter before winterizing it, but if you did not, you should now. Proceed by priming the pump and turning the filter on. It will be necessary for you to bleed any excess air from the system so that the filter can operate properly. Check for any leaks and lubricate O Rings if necessary.
Lastly, you will need to clean the pool and restore proper chemical balance. Sweep the entire pool and if necessary use a pool vacuum to remove any sand, dirt, algae or small debris from the bottom of the pool. It is important to allow the water to circulate and mix with the added water prior to testing, so allow the filter to run for approximately 12 hours before testing or adding any chemicals to the water. We recommend taking a sample to your local pool supply so that a full panel of tests (pH, Calcium, Harness, etc.) can be done. Take the necessary steps to balance the chemicals in your pool.
Now your pool is ready for the summer! Be sure to check your chemical balance regularly and have a great summer!